Clearwater City Council Debates Selling Street to Church of Scientology

Potential Street Sale to Scientology

• 💡 The Clearwater City Council is discussing a potential sale of a city-owned street, South Garden Avenue, to the Church of Scientology.
• 📌 The street in question is located downtown between Court Street and Franklin Street.

Council Disagreements on Terms

• 💬 Council members agree to discuss the sale but differ significantly on the proposed terms.
• ⚠️ Concerns were raised that the current negotiated deal might not be valuable enough for the city's citizens.
• 🎯 A key point of contention is ensuring open access and activation of the area, which some council members felt was not adequately negotiated.

Deal Details and Conditions

• 💰 The current agreement proposes the Church of Scientology pay the city $1,375,000 for the land.
• 📅 The church has indicated a desire to build an auditorium and must obtain building permits by December 31st, 2029, with construction largely completed by December 31st, 2031.

Traffic and Future Vote

• 🚗 Selling the street could necessitate a new traffic light due to increased congestion on remaining routes.
• 🗓️ The City Council is scheduled to vote on the sale this Thursday.
• ❓ The Church of Scientology has been contacted for comment but has not yet responded.